U.S. patent application number 14/521746 was filed with the patent office on 2015-05-21 for electrosurgical coagulation instrument including a suction pipe and a collapsible tip.
The applicant listed for this patent is COVIDIEN LP. Invention is credited to AMARSINH D. JADHAV, NIKHIL P. MANKAR.
Application Number | 20150141983 14/521746 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51900302 |
Filed Date | 2015-05-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150141983 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JADHAV; AMARSINH D. ; et
al. |
May 21, 2015 |
ELECTROSURGICAL COAGULATION INSTRUMENT INCLUDING A SUCTION PIPE AND
A COLLAPSIBLE TIP
Abstract
A method of treating tissue includes extending a distal tip of
an electrode of a surgical instrument from a body of the surgical
instrument to expose the distal tip by sliding the electrode along
a longitudinal axis defined by the body, delivering energy from the
distal tip to tissue, and applying suction adjacent the distal end
of the body with a suction pipe of the surgical instrument. The
distal tip of the electrode may include a collapsible portion.
Extending the distal tip of the electrode may include moving the
collapsible portion to extend beyond an outer radial dimension of a
nose of the surgical instrument.
Inventors: |
JADHAV; AMARSINH D.;
(ISLAMPUR-DIST-SANGLI, IN) ; MANKAR; NIKHIL P.;
(PUNE, IN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COVIDIEN LP |
Mansfield |
MA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51900302 |
Appl. No.: |
14/521746 |
Filed: |
October 23, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61906026 |
Nov 19, 2013 |
|
|
|
61906140 |
Nov 19, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
606/41 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2218/002 20130101;
A61B 2018/00196 20130101; A61B 18/14 20130101; A61B 18/1487
20130101; A61B 2218/007 20130101; A61B 2018/00946 20130101; A61B
2018/00964 20130101; A61B 2018/1475 20130101; A61B 2018/1427
20130101; A61B 2018/1422 20130101; A61B 2018/00214 20130101; A61B
2018/00029 20130101; A61B 2018/00589 20130101; A61B 2018/00958
20130101; A61B 18/1477 20130101; A61B 2018/00601 20130101; A61B
2018/00607 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
606/41 |
International
Class: |
A61B 18/14 20060101
A61B018/14 |
Claims
1. A method of treating tissue, comprising: extending a distal tip
of an electrode of a surgical instrument from a body of the
surgical instrument to expose the distal tip by sliding the
electrode along a longitudinal axis defined by the body; delivering
energy from the distal tip to tissue; and applying suction adjacent
the distal end of the body with a suction pipe of the surgical
instrument.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein extending the distal tip of the
electrode includes extending a portion of the distal tip from a
first position, wherein the distal tip is disposed within an outer
dimension of a distal end of the body, to a second position,
wherein the portion of the distal tip extends beyond the outer
dimension.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein delivering energy from the distal
tip to tissue and applying suction adjacent the distal end of the
body are performed simultaneously.
4. The method of claim 1 further including retracting the distal
tip of the electrode into the body before applying suction adjacent
the distal end of the body.
5. The method of claim 1 further including irrigating adjacent the
distal end of the body with a fluid exiting through a nose of the
body.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the surgical instrument includes
an actuation assembly including an inductive coil, and wherein
extending the distal tip of the electrode includes energizing the
inductive coil to effect sliding of the electrode.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the actuation assembly includes a
mechanical activation switch and a sliding magnet, the sliding
magnet disposed within the inductive coil and coupled to the
electrode, and wherein delivering energy from the distal tip to
tissue includes engaging the mechanical activation switch with the
sliding magnet to energize the electrode.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the distal tip of the electrode
includes a collapsible portion, and wherein extending the distal
tip of the electrode includes moving a portion of the collapsible
portion to extend beyond an outer radial dimension of a nose of the
surgical instrument.
9. The method of claim 8 further including retracting the distal
tip of the electrode within the body such that the portion of the
collapsible portion is returned to within the outer radial
dimension of the nose.
10. The method of claim 1 further including concealing the distal
tip of the electrode from the second position back to the first
position after delivering energy from the distal tip to tissue and
before applying suction adjacent the distal end of the body.
11. A method of treating tissue, comprising: exposing a distal tip
of an electrode of a surgical instrument from a first position,
wherein the distal tip is disposed within a lumen of a suction pipe
of the surgical instrument, to a second position, wherein the
distal tip of the electrode extends from a distal end of the
suction pipe; delivering energy from the distal tip to tissue; and
applying suction with the suction pipe adjacent the distal end of
the suction pipe.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein exposing the distal tip of the
electrode from the first position to the second position includes
retracting the suction pipe from about the distal tip of the
electrode.
13. The method of claim 12 further including extending the suction
pipe about the distal tip of the electrode after delivering energy
from the distal tip to tissue and before applying suction adjacent
the distal end of the suction pipe.
14. The method of claim 11, wherein exposing the distal tip of the
electrode from the first position to the second position includes
extending a portion of the electrode beyond an outer dimension of
the distal end of the suction pipe.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein, in the second position, the
distal tip of the electrode extends beyond an outer radial
dimension of the distal end of the suction pipe.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to,
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/906,026 and 61/906,140,
both of which were filed on Nov. 19, 2013. This application is
related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/521,690, filed on
Oct. 23, 2014. The entire contents of each of the above
applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and,
more specifically, to surgical instruments including retractable
and/or collapsible electrodes for treating, e.g., dissecting and/or
coagulating, tissue.
[0004] 2. Discussion of Related Art
[0005] The coagulation of bleeding blood vessels and tissue using
electrically conductive suction tubes typically includes a
combination of electrocautery and a suction device that is employed
in surgery wherever excessive blood must be removed from the
bleeding site in order to facilitate hemostasis of any bleeding
vessels. More particularly, during certain surgical procedure,
several layers of tissue must be penetrated to reach the operative
field. When excising an organ, such as a gallbladder, the tissue
surrounding the organ must often be penetrated and dissected before
the organ can be removed. The tissues being dissected, however,
often contain blood vessels, nerves, lymph vessels, and the like.
The technique of blunt dissection is often used to prevent
unnecessary damage caused by severing these vessels or nerves.
[0006] Blunt dissection, as opposed to sharp dissection, involves
the use of a blunt surface to break through the tissue, thereby
preventing the damage and bleeding caused by lasers and scalpels,
the tools of sharp dissection. Hard surgical sponges, generally
known as peanuts or Kittner sponges, or a surgeon's fingers are
often used as blunt dissectors. A peanut is a tightly wound ball of
absorbent material, such as gauze or other woven cotton, which is
typically gripped with forceps and acts to abrade the tissue being
dissected so that the dissection can be performed by either pulling
on the tissue or by forcing the peanut through the tissue.
[0007] Laparoscopy, surgery performed through several small
incisions or openings in the body rather than through a single
large opening reduces the trauma and the risk of infection as
compared to normal, open surgical procedures. The use of
conventional blunt dissectors, such as the peanut, during
laparoscopic procedures becomes difficult. For instance, peanuts,
being secured only by forceps, can become loose in the body.
Further, the view of the operative field often becomes obstructed
by pieces of tissue, blood, and other bodily fluids produced during
blunt dissection, necessitating the immediate need for both
irrigation and aspiration of the operative field. Thus, the
dissection must be stopped, the dissector must be removed, and an
irrigator and/or aspirator must be inserted to remove the fluid and
debris.
[0008] Electrosurgical suction coagulators which both coagulate and
dissect tissue generally include a conductive suction tube having
an insulating coating over all but a most distal portion of the
tube so that the distal portion forms a generally annular ablating
electrode. The distal end can be used as a blunt dissection device
and/or a blunt coagulator. A suction source is attached to a
proximal portion of the tube for evacuating excess fluid and debris
from the surgical site through the distal end of the tube.
SUMMARY
[0009] In accordance with the present disclosure, an
electrosurgical coagulation instrument is provided including a
body, a suction pipe, and an electrode. The body has a central
passage that defines a longitudinal axis. The suction pipe has a
distal end and defines a lumen. The suction pipe is disposed within
the central passage. The electrode has a distal tip that is
configured to deliver energy to tissue. The electrode is disposed
within the lumen of the suction pipe. The suction pipe and/or the
electrode is slidable along the longitudinal axis with respect to
the body and the other of the electrode and the suction pipe.
[0010] In aspects of the present disclosure, the suction pipe is
operatively associated with a suction pipe actuating member and a
suction pipe biasing member. The suction pipe biasing member is
configured to urge the suction pipe proximally. the suction pipe
actuation member selectively actuatable to move the suction pipe
distally against the bias of the suction pipe biasing member. The
suction pipe can have a retracted position and a deployed position.
In the retracted position, the distal end of the suction pipe is
proximal to a distal end of the body. In the deployed position, the
distal end of the suction pipe is distal to the distal end of the
body. The electrode can be longitudinally fixed relative to the
body with the distal tip of the electrode extending from the distal
end of the body and the distal end of the suction pipe positioned
distal to the distal tip of the electrode when the suction pipe is
in the deployed position.
[0011] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the electrode is
operatively associated with an electrode actuation member and an
electrode biasing member. The electrode biasing member is
configured to urge the electrode proximally. the electrode
actuating member is selectively actuatable to move the electrode
distally against the electrode biasing member. The electrode can
have a withdrawn position and an extended position. In the
withdrawn position, a distal tip of the electrode is proximal to a
distal end of the suction pipe. In the extended position, the
distal tip of the electrode is distal to the distal end of the
suction pipe. The suction pipe can be longitudinally fixed relative
to the body.
[0012] The distal tip of the electrode can have a first position
corresponding to the extended position of the electrode and a
second position corresponding to the withdrawn position of the
electrode. In the first position, the distal tip extends radially
outwardly beyond the outer dimension of the suction pipe. In the
second position, the distal tip is positioned within the lumen of
the suction pipe.
[0013] Also provided in accordance with the present disclosure is
an electrosurgical coagulation instrument including a body, a
suction pipe, and an electrode. The body includes a nose positioned
at a distal end of the body. The nose includes a central passage
that defines a longitudinal axis. The suction pipe has a distal end
and is disposed within the body. The electrode has a distal tip.
The electrode is disposed within the body and configured to deliver
energy to tissue. the electrode is slidable along the longitudinal
axis with respect to the body. The electrode has a withdrawn
position and an extended position. In the withdrawn position, the
distal tip of the electrode is positioned within the body proximal
to the distal end of the body. In the extended position, a portion
of the distal tip of the electrode extends distally from the distal
end of the body.
[0014] In aspects of the present disclosure, the distal tip
includes a fixed portion and a collapsible portion. The distal tip
has a first position and a second position corresponding to the
withdrawn position and the extended position of the electrode
respectively. In the first position, the collapsible portion is
disposed within the radial dimension of the central passage of the
body. In the second position, the collapsible portion extends
beyond the radial dimensions of the central passage of the body.
The fixed portion can include a pivot pin. The collapsible portion
can include a cam slot and a cam pin positioned within the cam
slot. The cam pin is configured to move within the cam slot to move
the collapsible portion from the first position to the second
position. The instrument can include a pull link that is coupled to
the cam pin. The pull link being configured to move the cam pin
within the cam slot to move the collapsible portion from the first
position to the second position when the electrode approaches the
extended position. The instrument can include a tip biasing member
that is positioned about the pivot pin. The tip biasing member
being configured to urge the collapsible portion towards the first
position.
[0015] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the instrument
includes an actuation assembly having a fixed magnet, a sliding
magnet, and an inductive coil. The inductive coil is positioned
about the fixed magnet. The sliding magnet is slidable along the
longitudinal axis of the body and is coupled to the electrode. When
the inductive is energized, the fixed magnet attracts the sliding
magnet such that the sliding magnet slides distally and extends the
electrode. The actuation assembly can include a magnet biasing
member that urges the sliding magnet proximally. the actuation
assembly can include proximal and distal stops configured to limit
the longitudinal movement of the sliding magnet. The distal stop
can include a mechanical activation switch configured to activate
the electrode when the sliding magnet is adjacent the distal
stop.
[0016] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the body
includes a chamber positioned at a proximal end of the central
passage. The chamber in fluid connection with the distal end of the
body. The instrument can further include an irrigation pipe having
a distal end. the distal ends of the suction pipe and the
irrigation pipe positioned at and in fluid connection with the
chamber. The distal end of the suction pipe can include a
directional valve configured to permit fluid to flow from the
chamber to the suction pipe and configured to inhibit fluid from
flowing from the suction pipe to the chamber. The distal end of the
irrigation pipe can include a directional valve configured to
permit fluid to flow from the irrigation pipe to the chamber and
configured to inhibit fluid from flowing from the chamber to the
irrigation pipe.
[0017] Methods of treating tissue provided in accordance with the
present disclosure include extending a distal tip of an electrode
of a surgical instrument from a body of the surgical instrument to
expose the distal tip by sliding the electrode along a longitudinal
axis defined by the body, delivering energy from the distal tip to
tissue, and applying suction adjacent the distal end of the body
with a suction pipe of the surgical instrument.
[0018] In aspects of the present disclosure, delivering energy from
the distal tip to tissue and applying suction adjacent the distal
end of the body are performed simultaneously. The method may
include retracting the distal tip of the electrode into the body
before applying suction adjacent the distal end of the body. The
method may include irrigating adjacent the distal end of the body
with a fluid exiting through a nose of the body. The method may
include concealing the distal tip of the electrode from the second
position back to the first position after delivering energy from
the distal tip to tissue and before applying suction adjacent the
distal end of the body.
[0019] In aspects of the present disclosure, the surgical
instrument includes an actuation assembly that includes an
inductive coil. Extending the distal tip of the electrode may
include energizing the inductive coil to effect sliding of the
electrode. The actuation assembly may also include a mechanical
activation switch and a sliding magnet. The sliding magnet may be
disposed within the inductive coil and engaged to the electrode. In
embodiments, delivering energy from the distal tip to tissue
includes engaging the mechanical activation switch with the sliding
magnet to energize the electrode.
[0020] In aspects of the present disclosure, extending the distal
tip of the electrode includes extending a portion of the distal tip
from a first position to a second position. In the first position,
the distal tip is disposed within an outer radial dimension of a
distal end of the body and in the second position, the portion of
the distal tip extends beyond the outer radial dimension.
[0021] In aspects of the present disclosure, the distal tip of the
electrode may include a collapsible portion. Extending the distal
tip of the electrode may include moving the collapsible portion to
extend beyond an outer radial dimension of a nose of the surgical
instrument. The method may include retracting the distal tip of the
electrode within the body such that the portion of the collapsible
portion is returned to within the outer radial dimension of the
nose.
[0022] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of
treating tissue includes exposing a distal tip of an electrode of a
surgical instrument from a first position to a second position,
delivering energy from the distal tip to tissue, and applying
suction with the suction pipe adjacent the distal end of the body.
In the first position, the distal tip is disposed within a lumen of
the suction pipe of the surgical instrument and in the second
position, the distal tip of the electrode extends from the distal
end of the suction pipe.
[0023] In aspects of the present disclosure, exposing the distal
tip of the electrode from the first position to the second position
includes retracting the suction pipe from about the distal tip of
the electrode. The method may include extending the suction pipe
about the distal tip of the electrode after delivering energy from
the distal tip to tissue and before applying suction adjacent the
distal end of the suction pipe.
[0024] In aspects of the present disclosure, exposing the distal
tip of the electrode from the first position to the second position
includes extending a portion of the electrode beyond an outer
dimension of the distal end of the suction pipe. In the second
position, the distal tip of the electrode may extend beyond an
outer radial dimension of the distal end of the suction pipe.
[0025] By providing a surgical instrument including a collapsible
distal tip the electrode of the instrument can have an activatible
tip with a surface area larger than the outer dimension of the
suction pipe and or the access port used to access the body cavity.
This may provide a clinician the ability to quickly dissect and
coagulate tissue reducing the time required to complete a surgical
procedure.
[0026] Further, to the extent consistent, any of the aspects
described herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the
other aspects described herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described
hereinbelow with reference to the drawings, wherein:
[0028] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective and cross-sectional views,
respectively, of a electrosurgical coagulation instrument in
accordance with the present disclosure with the suction pipe in the
retracted position;
[0029] FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective and cross-sectional views,
respectively, of the instrument of FIGS. 1A and 1B with the suction
pipe in the deployed position;
[0030] FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective and cross-sectional views,
respectively, of another electrosurgical coagulation instrument in
accordance with the present disclosure with the electrode in the
withdrawn position;
[0031] FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective and cross-sectional views,
respectively, of the instrument of FIGS. 3A and 3B with the
electrode in the extended position;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of yet another electrosurgical
coagulation instrument in accordance with the present disclosure
with the suction pipe in the retracted position and the electrode
in the withdrawn position;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 5
with the suction pipe in the deployed position and the electrode in
the extended position;
[0034] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 3
incorporating another electrode in the extended position in
accordance with the present disclosure;
[0035] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the instrument of FIG. 7
with the electrode in the withdrawn position;
[0036] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of still another
electrosurgical coagulation instrument in accordance with the
present disclosure with the electrode in the withdrawn
position;
[0037] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the instrument of FIG.
9 with the electrode in the extended position;
[0038] FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the distal
tip assembly of the instrument of FIG. 9 in the withdrawn
condition; and
[0039] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the distal
tip assembly of the instrument of FIG. 9 in the extended
condition.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0040] Embodiments of the present disclosure are now described in
detail with reference to the drawings in which like reference
numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of
the several views. As used herein, the term "clinician" refers to a
doctor, a nurse, or any other care provider and may include support
personnel. Throughout this description, the term "proximal" will
refer to the portion of the device or component thereof that is
closest to the clinician and the term "distal" will refer to the
portion of the device or component thereof that is furthest from
the clinician.
[0041] Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, an electrosurgical
coagulation surgical instrument 10 is provided in accordance with
the present disclosure incorporating a body 20, an extendable
suction pipe 30, and an electrode 40. Body 20 includes a proximal
end 22, a distal end 24, and a central passage 25 extending between
the proximal and distal ends 22, 24. In embodiments, body 20
includes a longitudinal slot 26 extending through body 20 and into
central passage 25.
[0042] Suction pipe 30 includes a proximal end 32, a suction tip or
distal end 34, and a lumen 35 extending between proximal and distal
ends 32, 24. Suction pipe 30 is slidably positioned within central
passage 25 of body 20. Suction pipe 30 is operatively associated
with a suction device (not shown) by a suction port 38. In
embodiments, a suction pipe biasing member 37 is disposed about the
outer surface of suction pipe 30 within body 20. Suction pipe
biasing member 37 urges suction pipe 30 proximally towards a
retracted position. In some embodiments, a suction pipe actuating
member 36 is coupled to the outer surface of suction pipe 30 and
extends through longitudinal slot 26 to permit deployment of
suction pipe 30. In certain embodiments, distal end 34 of suction
pipe 30 includes a plurality of holes 34a configured to improve
suction (see FIGS. 2A and 2B). Suction pipe 30 is configured to
suction fluids through distal end 34 with the fluids exiting
suction pipe 30 through suction port 38.
[0043] Electrode 40 includes a proximal end 42 and a distal tip 44.
Electrode 40 is disposed within lumen 35 of suction pipe 30 and is
longitudinally fixed relative to body 20. Electrode 40 is
operatively associated with an energy source (not shown). In
embodiments, proximal end 42 of electrode 40 is connected to the
energy source. The energy source is configured to provide energy
that is delivered to tissue through electrode 40. Electrode 40 can
be configured as a monopolar electrode, a bipolar electrode, a
microwave electrode, an ultrasonic blade, etc.
[0044] Electrode 40 has an activated state and an inactivate state.
In the activated state, the energy source provides energy to
electrode 40 enabling electrode 40 to deliver the energy to tissue
to dissect and coagulate tissue at distal tip 44. In the inactivate
state, energy is not delivered to tissue through distal tip 44 of
electrode 40. It will be appreciated that as energy is delivered to
tissue through distal tip 44, distal tip 44 can increase in
temperature. Instrument 10 can include an activation button (not
shown) for selectively supplying energy to electrode 40 or may be
configured to automatically supply energy to electrode 40 when
suction pipe 30 is retracted.
[0045] With additional reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, suction pipe
30 has a retracted position (FIGS. 1A and 1B) and a deployed
position (FIGS. 2A and 2B). In the retracted position, distal end
34 of suction pipe 30 is near distal end 24 of body 20. In some
embodiments, distal end 34 of suction pipe 30 is proximal to distal
end 24 of body 20 when suction pipe 30 is in the retracted
position. In the deployed position, distal end 34 of suction pipe
30 is extended past distal tip 44 of electrode 40. In some
embodiments, suction pipe actuation member 36 is moved distally to
extend suction pipe 30 against suction pipe biasing member 37. In
certain embodiments, the length of longitudinal slot 26 defines the
range of longitudinal movement of suction pipe 30 between the
retracted position and the deployed position by interacting with
suction pipe actuation member 36, i.e., the proximal and distal
ends of longitudinal slot 26 function as stops defining the extent
of longitudinal movement of suction pipe 30. Suction pipe 30 is
configured to provide suction in its retracted position and/or in
its deployed position.
[0046] Referring now to FIGS. 3A and 3B, another electrosurgical
coagulation surgical instrument 110 is provided in accordance with
the present disclosure incorporating a body 120, a suction pipe
130, and an extendable electrode 140. Body 120 is substantially
similar to body 20 and includes a proximal end 122, a distal end
124, and a central passage 125 extending between the proximal and
distal ends 122, 124. In embodiments, body 120 includes a
longitudinal slot 126 extending through body 120 and into central
passage 125.
[0047] Suction pipe 130 includes a proximal end 132, a distal end
134, and a lumen 135 extending between proximal and distal ends
132, 134. Suction pipe 130 is longitudinally fixed relative to body
120 within central passage 125 of body 120 such that distal end 134
of suction pipe 130 extends proximally from distal end 124 of body
120. Suction pipe 130 is operatively associated with a suction
device (not shown) by a suction port 138. In embodiments, distal
end 134 of suction pipe 130 includes a plurality of holes 134a
configured to improve suction. Suction pipe 130 is configured to
suction fluids through distal end 134 with the fluids exiting
suction pipe 130 from suction port 138.
[0048] Electrode 140 includes a proximal end 142 and a distal tip
144. Electrode is slidably disposed within lumen 135 of suction
pipe 130. Electrode tip 140 is operatively associated with an
energy source (not shown). In embodiments, proximal end 142 of
electrode is connected to the energy source. Electrode 140 is
configured to dissect and coagulate tissue by delivering energy to
tissue near or in contact with distal tip 144. In embodiments, an
electrode biasing member 147 is disposed about the outer surface of
suction pipe 130 within body 120. Electrode biasing member 147
urges electrode 140 proximally. In some embodiments, an electrode
actuating member 146 is coupled to the outer surface of electrode
140 and extends through longitudinal slot 126. In certain
embodiments, electrode biasing member 147 engages electrode
actuation member 146 to urge electrode 140 proximally. Electrode
140 has an activated state and an inactivate state similar to
electrode 40 discussed above, as such only the differences will be
discussed in detail below.
[0049] With additional reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrode 140
has a withdrawn position (FIGS. 3A and 3B) and an extended position
(FIGS. 4A and 4B). In the withdrawn position, distal tip 144 of
electrode 140 is proximal to distal end 134 of suction pipe 130. In
the extended position, distal tip 144 of electrode 140 extended
such that distal tip 144 is positioned distally of distal end 134
of suction pipe 130 and is free to contact tissue. In embodiments,
electrode actuating member 146 is moved distally to extend
electrode 140 against electrode biasing member 147, e.g., suction
pipe 130 can include a slot (not shown) permitting electrode
biasing member 147 to engage electrode 140. In some embodiments,
longitudinal slot 126 of body 120 defines the range of longitudinal
movement of electrode 140 between the withdrawn position and the
extended position by interacting with electrode actuation member
146, i.e. the proximal and distal ends of longitudinal slot 126
function as stops defining the amount of longitudinal movement of
electrode 140. In certain embodiments, electrode 140 is activatable
only in the extended position. In particular embodiments, the
distal end of longitudinal slot 126 includes an activation switch
126a which is engaged by electrode actuation member 146 when
electrode actuation member 146 approaches the distal end of
longitudinal slot 126. Activation switch 126a can be a contact
switch, a push button switch, a micro switch, a lever switch,
etc.
[0050] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, yet another electrosurgical
coagulation surgical instrument 210 is provided in accordance with
the present disclosure incorporating a body 220, an extendable
suction pipe 230, and an extendable electrode 240. Body 220 is
substantially similar to body 20 and includes a proximal end 222, a
distal end 224, and a central passage (not shown) extending between
the proximal and distal ends 222, 224. In embodiments, body 220
includes two longitudinal slots 226p, 226d extending through body
220 and into the central passage.
[0051] Suction pipe 230 is substantially similar to suction pipe 30
of instrument 10 and includes proximal and distal ends 232, 234 and
a lumen (not shown) extending between proximal and distal ends 232,
224. Suction pipe 230 is slidably positioned within the central
passage of body 220. Suction pipe 230 is operatively associated
with a suction device (not shown) by a suction port 238. In
embodiments, a suction pipe biasing member (not shown) is disposed
about the outer surface of suction pipe 230 within body 220. The
suction pipe biasing member urges suction pipe 230 proximally. In
some embodiments, a suction pipe actuating member 236 is disposed
about the outer surface of suction pipe 230 and extends through
longitudinal slot 226p to engage suction pipe 230. In certain
embodiments, distal end 234 of suction pipe 230 includes a
plurality of holes configured to improve suction. Suction pipe 230
is configured to suction fluids through distal end 234 with the
fluids exiting suction pipe 230 through suction port 238.
[0052] Electrode 240 is substantially similar to electrode 140 and
includes a proximal end 242 and a distal tip 244. Electrode 240 is
slidably disposed within lumen 235 of suction pipe 230. Electrode
tip 244 is operatively associated with an energy source (not
shown). In embodiments, proximal end 242 of electrode 240 is
connected to the energy source. Electrode 240 is configured to
dissect and coagulate tissue by delivering energy to tissue through
distal tip 244. In embodiments, an electrode biasing member (not
shown) is disposed about the outer surface of suction pipe 230
within body 220. The electrode biasing member urges electrode 240
proximally. The electrode biasing member (not shown) can be
positioned distal to the suction pipe biasing member (not shown).
In some embodiments, an electrode actuating member 246 is coupled
to the outer surface of electrode 240 and extends through the other
longitudinal slot 226d. In certain embodiments, the electrode
biasing member engages electrode actuating member 246 to urge
electrode 240 proximally. Electrode 240 has an activated state and
an inactivate state similar to electrode 40 discussed above, as
such only the differences will be discussed in detail below.
[0053] Suction pipe 230 has a retracted position and a deployed
position similar to suction pipe 30. Electrode 240 has a withdrawn
position and an extended position similar to electrode 140, as such
only the differences will be discussed. Suction pipe 230 and
electrode 240 are selectably and independently movable relative to
body 220.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, another electrode 340 is
provided in accordance with the present disclosure incorporating a
proximal end 342 and a collapsible distal tip 344. Electrode 340 is
similar to electrodes 40, 140, and 240, as such only the
differences will be discussed in detail below. Electrode 340 is
shown in use with instrument 110 but it will be appreciated that
electrode 340 can also be used with instruments 10 and 210 as an
alternative to electrodes 40 and 240, respectively, or with any
other suitable surgical instrument.
[0055] Collapsible distal tip 344 of electrode 340 includes a
proximal portion 344a and a distal portion 344b. Collapsible distal
tip 344 is biased towards a second position (FIG. 7) such that when
collapsible distal tip 344 is positioned distal to distal end 134
of suction pipe 130, distal portion 344b extends beyond the
dimensions of the outer surface of suction pipe 130, i.e., distal
portion 344b crosses the longitudinal axis of instrument 110 and
extends for a length greater than the radius of suction pipe 130
along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of instrument
110. In some embodiments when in the second position, distal
portion 344b extends along an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal
axis of instrument 110 beyond the outer surface of both sides of
suction pipe 130 such that the length of distal portion 344b is
greater than the diameter of suction pipe 130. Collapsible distal
tip 344 also has a first position (FIG. 8) when collapsible distal
tip 344 is positioned proximal to the distal end 134 of suction
pipe 130 and within suction pipe 130, e.g., when confined within
suction pipe 130. When in the first position, the inner surface of
suction pipe 130 interacts with collapsible distal tip 344 to
constrain distal tip 344 in the first position such that distal
portion 344b is within lumen 135, e.g., within the outer dimensions
of suction pipe 130, as shown in FIG. 8. Electrode 340 can be
constructed of a material having a resilient bias towards the
second position or may be formed from a shape-memory material such
as Nitnol.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 9-12, yet another electrosurgical
coagulation instrument 410 provided in accordance with the present
disclosure incorporates a body 420, a suction pipe 430, an
electrode 440, an irrigation pipe 450, and an actuation assembly
460. Body 420 includes a suction tip or nose 421, a proximal end
422, a chamber 423, a distal end 424, and a central passage 425.
Body 420 can be constructed from a biocompatible plastic material
or other suitable material. Central passage 425 is disposed within
nose 421 and fluidly connects chamber 423 and distal end 424.
Distal end 424 can include a metal insert or sleeve 424a positioned
in an inner surface of distal end 424. Metal insert 424a can be
configured to protect plastic body 420 from damage by a heated
distal tip assembly 444, although the insert can be constructed of
any material suitable to protect plastic body 420 from a heated
distal tip assembly 444. Chamber 423 forms a fluid seal at the
proximal end of central passage 425.
[0057] Suction pipe 430 has a proximal end 432 and a distal end
434. Distal end 434 is fluidly coupled to chamber 423 through a
valve 433. Valve 433 can be a directional valve permitting fluid to
flow from chamber 423 into suction pipe 430. In embodiments,
proximal end 432 of suction pipe 430 is connected to a vacuum
source 439 that is configured to draw fluid from chamber 423.
[0058] Irrigation pipe 450 has a proximal end 452 and a distal end
434. Distal end 434 is fluidly coupled to chamber 423 through a
valve 453. Valve 453 can be a directional valve permitting fluid to
flow from irrigation pipe 450 into chamber 423. In embodiments,
proximal end 452 of irrigation pipe 450 is connected to an
irrigation source 459 that provides fluid for irrigation pipe
450.
[0059] Electrode 440 includes a proximal end 442 and a distal tip
assembly 444. Distal tip assembly 444 includes a fixed portion 445,
a collapsible portion 446, and a pivot pin 449 as shown in FIGS. 11
and 12. Distal tip assembly 444 can define various configurations,
i.e., straight, curved, angled, etc. Fixed portion 445 has a cam
slot 445a. Collapsible portion 446 is pivotally coupled to fixed
portion 445 by pivot pin 449 and includes a cam pin 446a slidably
positioned within cam slot 445a of fixed portion 445. A pull link
448 is coupled to cam pin 446a to move cam pin 446a within cam slot
445a and is configured to extend collapsible portion 446 as
discussed in detail below. Alternatively, electrode 440 may employ
the features of electrode 340 (FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0060] Electrode 440 has a withdrawn position (FIG. 9) and an
extended position (FIG. 10). In the withdrawn position, distal tip
assembly 444 is positioned within chamber 423 and in the extended
position distal tip assembly 444 is positioned beyond distal end
424 of body 420. Actuation assembly 460 is configured to move
electrode 440 from the withdrawn position to the extended
position.
[0061] Actuation assembly 460 includes a fixed magnet 461, an
inductive coil 462, a sliding magnet 464, and an actuation button
469. Fixed magnet 461 is positioned distal of sliding magnet 464.
Actuation button 469 is electrically coupled to inductive coil 462
to energize inductive coil 462. Inductive coil 462 is position
about fixed magnet 461 and configured to control the magnetic field
of fixed magnet 461 when energized as discussed below. Sliding
magnet 464 is coupled to electrode 440 such that electrode 440
cooperates with longitudinal movement of sliding magnet 464.
Electrode 440 can pass through an opening or slot in fixed magnet
461 such that fixed magnet 461 does not interfere with the
longitudinal movement of electrode 440. Sliding magnet 464 is
positioned between proximal stops 465 and distal stops 466. A
magnet biasing member 467 is supported on fixed magnet 461 and
configured to urge sliding magnet 464 proximally. Distal stops 466
can include a mechanical activation switch 468 that is configured
to energize electrode 440. Mechanical activation switch 466 can be
a plunger, a cantilever switch, a contact switch, etc.
[0062] When inductive coil 462 is energized, inductive coil 462
induces the magnetic field of fixed magnet 461 to attract sliding
magnet 464 distally towards fixed magnet 461 and against magnet
biasing member 467. As sliding magnet 464 moves distally, electrode
cooperates with sliding magnet 464 to extend distal tip assembly
444 distally beyond distal end 424 of body 420. Distal stops 466
are positioned such that sliding magnet 461 contacts distal stops
after distal tip assembly 444 extends from distal end 424 of body
420. When distal stops 466 include mechanical activation switch
468, sliding magnet 464 engages mechanical activation switch 468 to
energize electrode 440 only when distal tip assembly 444 extends
beyond distal end 424. Moreover, if an external force moves
electrode 440 proximally, sliding magnet can disengage mechanical
activation switch 468, for example, electrode 440 could be pressed
against tissue and moved proximally relative to body 420.
[0063] Collapsible portion 446 has a first position (FIG. 11) and a
second position (FIG. 12). A tip biasing member 449a is positioned
on pivot pin 449 to urge collapsible portion 446 towards the first
position. Tip biasing member 449a can be a torsion spring. When
collapsible portion 446 is in the first position, distal tip 444 is
within the dimensions of central passage 425 of nose 421. Pull link
448 is configured to move collapsible portion 446 to the second
position, against tip biasing member 449a, when electrode 440 is in
the second position by moving cam pin 446a within cam slot 445a.
When collapsible portion 446 is in the second position a portion of
distal tip assembly 444 is beyond the outer dimension of nose 421
as shown in FIG. 12. In embodiments, collapsible portion 446
automatically moves to the second position when distal tip assembly
444 is extended beyond distal end 424 of body 420. In certain
embodiments, pull link 448 automatically moves cam pin 446a within
cam slot 445a when distal tip assembly 444 approaches the extended
position and is beyond distal end 424 of body 420.
[0064] While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown
in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited
thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope
as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise.
Therefore, the above description should not be construed as
limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments.
Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within
the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.
* * * * *